In his book, “The Stationer’s Handbook,” he created the first commercial sizes of envelopes based on a numerical system starting from 0 and going through 12.  Envelopes were designated a number based on their size, and that is how we came to call the standard business envelope the “Number 10” Envelope.   At the time envelopes were mostly for social and business stationery purposes, but now there are many more sizes available.
 

In order to choose the right envelope, you must first decide what size you will need.  As you narrow down your search you can choose other options, such as whether you would like a Window Envelope so the to and from address can be visible from inside the envelope.  If using a window envelope be sure that the address line up in the window.

Many envelopes can be seen through if they are held up to the light so if you are mailing something valuable or private you may want to use a Security Envelope.    Security envelopes employ a thicker design and patterns on the inside of the envelope to prevent someone from being able to see what is in the envelope.    

Padded Envelopes are very helpful when you are sending something delicate that requires a little extra protection such as photographs and CD/DVDs.  Padded envelopes come in many different shapes and sizes and usually do a very good job at keeping your items in one piece.  Be sure to also ask at the post office for a “Fragile” stamp for even more protection.

For many people having to lick the envelope is considered a very unpleasant experience.  With Self-Seal Envelopes available you can just peel of a tape and stick the flap down without having to moisten the envelope at all.  There are also Envelope Moisteners available that wet the envelope for you so you don’t ever have to worry about the awful taste in your mouth again.

There are also many different Recycled Envelopes available that are considered Eco-Friendly for those of us who are trying to live a “Greener” lifestyle.  Recycled envelopes are just as reliable and strong as the regular envelopes and come in many of the most popular styles.

It is also important to understand some of the pricing guidelines set by the United States Postal Service because envelope size, shape and material can have an impact in mailing costs.  For example any envelope that cannot be sent through the USPS machines because it is a certain shape, or contains metal clasps is subject to an automatic $0.17 surcharge. For more information please visit the USPS Postal Calculator here.

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written by Kery, September 29, 2007

Good office supplies. I found great variety of office supplies on discounted prices, I bought many products..

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